Painting work suspended at New Wear Crossing after 'specks of paint' found on nearby vehicles

Painting work at Sunderland's New Wear Crossing has been suspended after vehicles parked nearby were discovered to have what appear to be specks of white paint on them.

FVB, the joint venture formed to deliver the new bridge, is addressing the issue.

A spokesman said: "We can confirm that it appears that some vehicles parked close to the bridge site, mainly on the north side of the river have, what appear to be, specks of white paint on them.

"We have ceased painting on site pending an investigation and can assure all those concerned that we are progressing matters as quickly as possible. A loss adjuster is now in place to take the issue forward.

"He will be establishing and managing a process for assessing the damage to cars, and will then be identifying a suitable remedy. He will be liaising with those affected in the coming week.

"We thank everyone for their patience while the process takes its course.”

Mark Jackson, Head of Infrastructure and Transport at Sunderland City Council, said: "The contractor has put in place a process to resolve this as a priority.

"What is important is that it’s dealt with quickly and appropriately, and that there’s satisfactory resolution for anybody who has been affected."

Work began on the New Wear Crossing – Sunderland’s first bridge across the River Wear in more than 40 years – in May 2015. It is due to be complete in the spring of next year.

It is Phase 2 of the Sunderland Strategic Transport Corridor, which aims to improve links between the A19 and Sunderland City Centre and the Port of Sunderland. The new bridge will also open up land for regeneration along the south side of the river, help to create jobs, and reduce congestion around the city.

If anyone believes their vehicle has been impacted by the white specks of paint they should make contact via: newwearcrossing@sunderland.gov.uk.